As children, we’re all taught that breakfast is the most important meal of the day – if you skip it, your body and mind don’t have the fuel they need to work their very best. As adults, however, many of us rush out the door without that morning meal, putting us at a disadvantage for the day. Luckily, with a few tricks, it doesn’t have to be that way.
Start your morning right with these 2 simple solutions, and you’ll be amazed at how different you feel.
Coffee: Cups And Concentrate
Most of us require at least one cup of coffee, and often more than that, to get started in the morning, though very few stop to consider how the coffee is made. Truly great coffee is a science, relying on precise temperatures and proportions, but don’t get caught up in the logistics. Today, there are simpler ways to make a perfect cup with minimal measurements.
One of the most popular ways to brew a great cup of coffee is by using a single cup system like a Keurig or Tassimo. These machines calibrate the temperature based on what pre-measured coffee pod you put in. You’ll get a tasty cup of joe, but know that these machines can be pricy.
Another alternative for a great cup of coffee that will simplify your mornings is cold brew. You can make cold brew coffee in large batches in advance, and for those with chronic reflux or other gastrointestinal issues, cold brew is often a better choice because it’s less acidic. Just steep your coffee grounds in cold water overnight, strain, and mix with water – cold brew makes a strong cup.
Superfood Central: Chia Seeds
For a highly nutritious, filling, and flexible breakfast, chia seeds are the perfect base. Chia seeds are one of today’s most popular superfoods, full of omega-3s and high in fiber. On their own, they don’t taste like much, but they make the perfect base for dozens of flavors and toppings.
To make chia pudding, mix about a ¼ cup of chia seeds with a cup of coconut milk, or other liquid of your choice. While at first the seeds will look like they’re just floating in the liquid, once they’ve sat overnight, they’ll absorb that liquid and make a creamy pudding base. Add a little bit of honey or maple syrup for sweetness, and then let loose with your favorite fruits and other add-ins. You can make a big batch of this pudding in advance and add different toppings each day.
It may not seem like much, but coffee plus chia pudding are a breakfast made in heaven, and they’ll get your day off to a great start. The fiber in the chia seeds will keep you full all morning, while the coffee energizes you – and it can all be done in advance or with the push of a button. No more excuses for skipping breakfast when it’s ready and waiting when you wake up.